A pregnancy begins with conception. A child is conceived when the male sperm successfully fertilises the female egg. Successful fertilisation is most likely during a 24-hour period following the L.H. surge. Since this window is only open once a month and for a short period of time, being able to predict the L.H surge is very helpful when trying to become pregnant.

When a woman is about to ovulate, her body releases a large amount of a hormone called L.H. (Luteinising Hormone). L.H. is always present in your urine but the levels increase (surge) in the middle of your cycle, causing you to release an egg from the ovary, this process is called ovulation. If the L.H. surge is present, ovulation is likely to occur in the next 24 to 48 hours.

These ovulation tests detect the L.H. surge by measuring the amount of L.H. in urine.

Once I receive a positive result, when is the best time to have intercourse?

Ovulation usually follows the start of the L.H. surge within 24-48 hours. This is the time when you are at your most fertile, therefore you should have intercourse during this time.

What happens if after using the 5 tests provided I have still not detected my L.H. surge?

Most women with regular cycles will detect their L.H. Surge in 5 days or under and so 5 tests are sufficient, however, if you have irregular cycles you may need to test for longer and may require additional ovulation tests to detect your L.H. Surge

I have recently come off the contraceptive pill will this affect my result?

As the pill disrupts your natural hormone balance it may take a few months for your periods to return to normal. You may want to wait until you have had 2 normal periods before starting to use this ovulation test. Please be aware that pregnancy and breast feeding could affect the results of this test.

Will alcohol or other common medications affect the results of this test?

No, but you should consult your doctor if you are taking any hormonal treatments.

No, the test is not designed to prevent contraception. As sperm can survive for 72 hours you might still become pregnant if you had intercourse before you detected your L.H. Surge

I had a positive result for the L.H. Surge and had sexual intercourse during this period but I have still not become pregnant.

There are many factors that can affect your fertility. It can take many healthy couples months to achieve pregnancy. You may need to use these tests for a few months before pregnancy occurs. If after 6 months of trying you have still not become pregnant, you should visit your doctor for advice. For more information and tips on trying for a baby click here.